I’m not a very patient guy by nature. I like things now, and when ideas come to mind I’m looking for instant execution. If it’s a sunny day and I get a whim to take the family to the park, it’s "kids get ready we’re leaving in two minutes." I love the excitement, but I can also stress out my wife in the process (she’s much more of a planner).

Patience and Preparation

I’ve been convicted lately that I need to pursue both patience and preparation more diligently. I’m guilty of defining patience as laziness. And as for preparation, if a plan is not immediately apparent, I’m naturally prone to cram all preparation at the last minute—whether it’s for a test, a meeting, a sermon, community group, saving for a house, or a simple trip to the park.

Fruitful Spontaneity

I’m not arguing against spontaneity. In fact, the more prepared we are the more likely we’ll be ready to roll when the Holy Spirit leads us. In other words, fruitful spontaneity requires preparation. Spend time with Jesus. Budget. Read the Bible. Date your spouse. Love your kids. Share Jesus with friends and family. Keep a calendar. Then when the time comes for spontaneity we can enjoy it rather than playing catch-up.

Be Ready!

When the plan doesn’t seem clear, there is still always a plan: a plan of preparation. Hurry up and prepare. Be ready in your:

• Bible: "Be ready" to preach and teach the Bible, or share Jesus with someone who has a question (2 Tim 4:2).
• Giving: "Be ready" by putting money aside to give to the church and those in need (2 Cor 9:3).
• Deeds: "Be ready" for every good work Jesus wants you to do (Titus 3:1).

Lord Jesus, may I and we be faithful in our preparation so that our patience may increase and our readiness for good works may improve.